Petrcane from the Hotel Pinija

We flew out of Stansted (courtesy of Ryanair) just after lunchtime and arrived at Zadar Airport about 2.5 hours later.

We were going to get the bus into Zadar then on to Petrcane, but a taxi driver made us a good offer to take us straight to the hotel.

We set off and passed the millitary base next to the airport. Spotted a couple of old Mig fighters and a couple of Russian made helicopters.

After a mile or two the taxi driver turned off the metalled road and headed along a dirt track.

"We take short cut!" he said.

I started to process a couple of things in my mind quickly as this was a new country to us and we didn't speak the language.

Did the taxi driver look trustworthy?
I think so.

Was this a proper taxi?
It was painted up and had a genuine looking plate on the back.

I noticed another taxi just ahead and could also see a major road about 2km away in the direction we were travelling.

I relaxed a little and shot Therry a re-assuring glance.

We passed above Zadar on the main road and the driver pointed out a few notable features.

In just under 20 minutes we were at the reception desk of the hotel checking in.

After dumping the bags we set off for a quick explore.

Therry had a quick paddle in the outdoor pool and we headed the 20m to the shore line. We walked round the promontory on which the hotel is situated.

This is the view across the bay.
The Velebit Mountans can be seen in the background.

Back to the room to freshen up and head into Petrcane to find somewhere to eat.

We found a lovely resturant right on the front and had grilled squid, tuna in safron sauce and a couple of vegetable dishes, all washed down with a couple of beers as we watched the sun set.

A great first day!